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Most of us distinguish between our “everyday” clothing and the clothing that we put on for special or formal occasions, such as religious services, weddings, proms, or award ceremonies. We might “dress up” in order to show the honor and respect demanded of a particular activity or because these are community affairs and we want to appear at our best when seen by others. Whatever the case, by donning attire that is more beautiful, more expensive, more extraordinary, we step out of our daily routines, facilitating our own
participation in out-of-the-ordinary events. As this British court dress and Turkmen chyrpy demonstrate, the concept of “ceremonial” garb translates across both cultures and historical eras.

Questions to Consider

Is it immediately apparent to you that these items of clothing are ceremonial in nature? Do their forms and materials offer hints to their function?

Do you think that ceremonial garb is universally recognizable? What factors do you think influence the shape, form, and materials of ceremonial dress?

When worn, what did each of these items communicate about its wearer’s status? How did it communicate that information? Why do you think that ceremonial clothing is used to make statements about social status in so many cultures? Does it play that role in your own culture?